Race Rules

The event will be held under the 'Rules for Competition' as laid down in the Marathon Racing section of the BCU Canoe Sprint & Marathon Racing HandBook.

Your attention is drawn to Section 5 'SAFETY' of the BCU Marathon Racing Rules, in particular the rules concerning buoyancy in boats and the wearing of buoyancy aids.

Rule 5a(i); 'Competitors must render their boats sufficiently buoyant to remain afloat and to support the crew in the event of capsize. Buoyancy must be fixed in the boat reasonably sufficiently to satisfy rule 27 of the ICF Marathon Rules which states that: ‘Each boat must carry sufficient buoyancy, either in the construction of the boat or fixed subsequently, to keep the boat floating level when filled with water.' British Canoeing Marathon Committee rules interpretation of this is that inherent buoyancy provided by ‘Vac-bag' or 'sandwich' construction is not alone sufficient and must be supplemented by adequate fixed additional flotation material or by the provision of sealed bulkheads.'

RULE 5c(i): 'Race organisers may require life jackets or buoyancy aids and spray covers to be worn and will have the FINAL say as to who should wear them (except where this is covered by rule 5a(v)) depending on weather and water conditions. Such equipment must be provided by the competitors.'At the request of the harbour authority, the organisers require approved lifejackets or buoyancy aids to be worn by all paddlers.

PRIZES

Although women and men will start together a full range of prizes will be awarded to both sexes (we are an equal opportunities race!) in kayak and canoe (for major types of craft e.g. WWRs, Sea Kayaks), and in age groups as set out on the entry card, subject to sufficient numbers.
Please ensure that you fill in the entry card correctly and completely to allow us to determine whether you are eligible for a prize.
All paddlers completing the Conwy Ascent will receive a finishing memento.